Orlando City Soccer Club has signed Major League Soccer (MLS) SuperDraft third-round pick Earl Edwards Jr., providing additional depth to the Lions’ goalkeeping core for the 2015 MLS season. Per Club and league policy, additional terms were not disclosed.

“Earl has shown great potential during the team’s training and friendlies so far,” said Head Coach Adrian Heath. “His skills and excellent work ethic will benefit the team going forward, and we are excited to continue working with him.”

The 23-year old goalkeeper was selected as the first pick of the third-round (43rd pick) in the 2015 MLS SuperDraft from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). During his college career, the young goalkeeper was team captain in three out of five seasons with UCLA, starting 44 consecutive matches between 2013 and 2014.

His outstanding performance earned him two selections to the All-Pac-12 first team. Edwards also has represented the United States in the international stage, including starts in the U-17 World Cup, and appearances with the U.S Youth National Teams at the U-14 through U-20 levels.

The goalkeeper has appeared in four preseason friendlies with Orlando City so far, allowing only one goal from the penalty spot.

Transaction:Orlando City Signs Third-Round Pick Earl Edwards Jr.

Name: Earl Edwards Jr.

Date of Birth: 01/24/1992

Height: 6’3″

Weight: 205 lbs.

Birthplace: San Diego, CA

Citizenship: United States of America

Twitter: @EARLJRUCLA

The 2015 Major League Soccer season kicks off at the Orlando Citrus Bowl as the Lions host New York City FC on March 8, 2015 at 5:00 p.m. ET.

Orlando City will host several events leading up to March 8 as part of Operation #FillTheBowl. Admission to many of these events includes a ticket to the historic first game. More information is available at www.OrlandoCitySC.com/FillTheBowl.